From Pain to Beauty: Lessons from a Make-up Artist

Growing up I was often reminded that I wasn’t the idea of smart and/or beautiful. I was criticized and compared constantly about my appearance. I cried a lot and blamed God.

Still trying to see through the tears to have a good childhood. Playing dress-up with my cousins, styling our hairs, applying our mother’s makeup, just playing and having fun was my escape. I had no intention to make playing “dressing up” as a dream or career.

I was raised in a way to know that there are special people in the world but you are NOT one of them! This is something I cried about all throughout my life.

Self hate, criticism and negative thoughts were things I nourished. Reliving those bullying statements “you’re ugly and stupid” made it so difficult to trust and believe in others and myself, especially in good moments of genuine acceptance.

However, there came a breaking point.

I lived through my awkward teenage years, coming into a young adult I was on a mission to “look beautiful”.

Even though I was full of internal pain and suffering, I was determined to “fix” this part of me and prove to my bullies I can be beautiful!

I began my research on beauty, which led me to makeover shows, makeup and hairstyling. This encouraged me to pursue makeup artistry and cosmetology.

A true passion emerged.

Still unsure if this could be a career, self doubt fluttering in an out, with a leap of faith I began posting my work on social media with no expectations, luckily business took off.

Clients always use my business name as a fun and sweet conversation starter which I love very much, but not knowing it came from sad pray to god. “please god, can you make me beautiful”. Make Me Beautiful was born.

After 13 years in this business I can say I’ve learnt a lot and still learning both personal and professional. But with my struggles, misfortunes, failure and success I am very grateful for all my experiences. I’m a strong believer in growth with whatever field or life choices. I want to help manifest more inner beauty and self love.

Society has made makeup artistry into a negative reflection of someone’s self-esteem.

But I chose not to listen to those voices anymore. Makeup is a form of art, I know I’m enhancing someone’s beautiful canvas, I’m not changing, covering up or fixing who they are. I chose to believe I’m bringing out their best selves within, outward.

I now have a different perspective about my past.

Instead of enduring and reliving my pain, I see it as lessons that pushed me into the right direction. I’ve notice that when I stop playing a victim and face the darkness, I can fully let go to live a mentally happier life and I’m proud of whom I’ve become.

So instead on tossing around the negativity, bullying and pain like dirt, I collectively use them all to mould a beautiful life and career.

I would encourage you all to embrace your talents, skills and dreams. Learn from negativity, face your fears head on. Keep moving forward.

You are worthy, beautiful and loved.

Written by: Vandana Ramnath

Makeup Artist & Hairstylist

Founder of Make Me Beautiful by Vandana Ramnath

Follow her on Instagram @makemebeautifulvr if you’d like to learn more about her work and her journey